Deaf AAPI
Experience
A mural by Yiqiao Wang
Supported by
Deaf artist Yiqiao Wang’s artwork celebrates the multicultural spirit of American Sign Language. This mural also represents the pride and heritage of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) deaf communities and their contributions to society. On the left wall, the signs “EQUALITY” and “INCLUSION” are portrayed while on the right wall, an Asian-American Deaf woman signs “ASIA”.
The mural’s bright and bold colors symbolize the vibrancy of AAPI culture, and incorporates iconic landmarks of Washington DC. Washington DC is considered to be a city where the deaf community is well represented and this mural reminds people that the deaf community is not monolithic. Historically underrepresented by society, this mural serves as a message that equality and inclusion are important in removing the invisibleness of the AAPI deaf community and is a call to action to see and understand them.
A secondary goal of this mural is to promote awareness about Gallaudet University and the deaf community and its place within the neighborhood.
Originally from Beijing, China, Yiqiao Wang is a senior artist and a creative designer at Gallaudet University’s The Science of Learning Center on Visual Language and Visual Learning in Washington, DC. She holds an MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and she takes a variety of approaches in exploring her illustrative visions, using both hand drawing and digital work. Her creative principles are based on a theme of vivid color. She has also created several prominent mural designs, including the Loon Mural in downtown Minneapolis, and the Vibrant mural in the Signing Starbucks store at 625 H Street NE.
Convo Now: Bringing the mural of conversation to life. Our new initiative is like a mural, each interaction adding a unique touch to the bigger picture. It's about real moments, real ideas, and real exchanges that shape lives. Convo Now is where everyone finds their place in the conversation, just like every color finds its space on a mural. Simple, direct, and powerful: the essence of the moment.